LOS ANGELES, CA – Today Councilmember Blumenfield introduced measures to improve connectivity and safety along the LA River and Aliso Creek Confluence Park by investing in much needed bike and pedestrian infrastructure. His motions direct the investment of over $4 million of local CRA/LA Bond funds to build a pedestrian bridge at the Aliso Creek Confluence Park in Reseda, add new bike and walking paths, establish better storm water treatment, and create new cross walks, striping and a traffic signal at Victory and Vanalden.

“This is a massive investment in the neighborhood (local infrastructure) and paves the way for better pedestrian and bike traffic along the LA River,” said Blumenfield. “My dream for the river is that it becomes a safe and beautiful place where all Angelenos can go, get outside and enjoy our City; this is a big step in that direction.”

The multi-phase Aliso Creek Confluence Park project’s first phase was completed in August 2016 when Blumenfield opened the initial park adding two acres of green space, one mile of walking paths, three-quarter miles of bicycle lanes, and an amphitheater. It was built both with money he helped secure as a state legislator as well as funds he secured as a Councilmember. He stressed the importance of transitioning the LA River into a 51 mile linear park that is safe and is connected from the headwaters in Canoga Park all the way to the South Bay. Phase 2 which begins today continues to expand the future of the river in the West Valley.

“This project has long been sought by the community- it will better connect institutions such as the Jewish Home for the Aging and the YMCA to the park as well as local neighborhoods,” stated Blumenfield.

Blumenfield has been a strong environmental and parks advocate throughout his career and, in addition to the Aliso Creek Park, created the Costanso Fire Station Park in Woodland Hills as well as the upcoming Caballero Creek Park in Tarzana. He also worked closely on the new and improved Woodland Hills Rec Center that reopened in August 2017, as well as many renovations at various parks throughout his community.

In addition to pedestrian safety, Blumenfield is also focused on increasing cleanliness and public safety along the river from crime and transient activity and has allocated over $100,000 to more services from the LAPD HOPE Team specifically in the West Valley.

The motions will next be heard in Public Works and Gang Reduction Committee, which Blumenfield Chairs.